Lumia Black Update to Showcase BLE

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As Bluetooth Low Energy (BLE) continues to grow in popularity, it’s no surprise to see that major players are taking steps to implement the technology in their devices. Nokia, recently acquired by Microsoft, announced that the future software update titled Lumia Black will add BLE to all Windows Phone 8 Lumia handsets. Lumia handsets have won numerous awards and have grown in sales in each of the last three quarters, with sales reaching 7.4 million units in the second quarter of 2013, according to a Microsoft press release. BLE compatibility first arrived on select Nokia models (520, 620, 625, and 720) via the Amber update in August 2013. With the growing number of accessories that support the latest low-power version of Bluetooth, BLE support in Windows Phones is crucial. Currently, accessories designed for health and fitness and retail are booming, and this is just the start. Bluetooth v4.0 uses considerably less power than traditional Bluetooth data connections, and its arrival will allow all Lumias to connect with other devices and accessories designed exclusively for BLE technology.

Nokia has yet to reveal the official release date of the Lumia Black software update. Check back with the Wireless Connectivity Blog for updates.